2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 465 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 2004 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mazda 6 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
